Meiningen, Germany

Guide for the rail traveller

Information

Introduction

There’s plenty for culture vultures in this picturesque town in central Germany. The jewel in its crown is the Meininger Theatre, which hosts around a thousand events annually, encompassing classical music performances, dramas and poetry slam. The Ada Gallery showcases contemporary artists; for more traditional art forms there is the Elizabeth Castle, which has a collection of baroque and rococo work and is the town’s biggest museum. The Meiningen Court Orchestra was founded in 1690 and in the past has featured collaborations with Johannes Brahms and Richard Strauss.

Meiningen is also a popular starting point for hiking because of its proximity to the Thuringian forest and its nature park. The Goetz Weekly markets in the town centre offer fresh produce and locally sourced food, including local specialities like Thuringian bratwurst and dumplings. Also worth a visit is the Goetz Cave, which is thought to have existed for 20,000 years; don’t miss the scenic views from the platform at the front of the cave.